JP4201155B2 - Inter-vehicle distance alarm device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention is for preventing a collision such as a rear-end collision of a host vehicle with a front traveling vehicle based on a signal from a sensor linked to a speed control device of the host vehicle or measurement of an inter-vehicle distance from the host vehicle to a front traveling vehicle. Inter-vehicle distance alarmIn placeIt is related.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, various devices have been devised for preventing rear-end collisions with vehicles traveling ahead using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle. The applicant of the present application also has a collision prediction device in Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-31074 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-79551, and a new rear-end collision warning in Japanese Patent Application No. 9-41307 and Japanese Institute of Technology Publication No. 98-6409. Regarding the apparatus and its inter-vehicle distance display method, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-340200 and published technical report 98-6876 propose an inter-vehicle distance notification device for notifying a change in the inter-vehicle distance.
[0003]
By the way, in the state where a plurality of vehicles are traveling safely, if the inter-vehicle distance between the host vehicle and the preceding traveling vehicle approaches, the driver of the host vehicle returns the accelerator pedal or steps on the brake pedal to reduce the speed of the host vehicle. The vehicle is decelerated and a measure corresponding to a change in the distance between the vehicle and the vehicle traveling ahead is used to prevent a collision (rear collision) accident. From this, it can be said that one of the causes of the collision (rear-end collision) is that the above-described series of operations is not performed, or the operation is delayed.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the conventional technology, there is a reliable device that can prevent a rear-end collision or the like by detecting it correctly when the above series of operations is not performed due to side-view driving or the like, or when there is a delay in the operation, It has not yet been put into practical use.
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to make the driver's reaction to the approach of the inter-vehicle distance based on the change in the output signal value from the sensor that generates a signal by the operation of the accelerator pedal when the host vehicle approaches the forward traveling vehicle. It is intended to provide a new inter-vehicle distance alarm device that investigates and issues an alarm when there is a possibility of a collision to prevent an accident.
Another object of the present invention is to propose an inter-vehicle distance alarm device that accurately corresponds to an ever-changing inter-vehicle distance, with respect to an improvement of a conventionally proposed alarm device. Furthermore, the display device optimal for these devices makes it possible to make the operation status clear at a glance, and to provide an inter-vehicle distance alarm device that is more practical and reliable as an index for safe driving.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the first aspect of the present invention is:An inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and a sensor whose output signal changes according to the operation of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle.,The output signal value from the sensor became constant for a predetermined timeBySenSaReference range of output signal value based on output signal valueStorage means for storingIn the inter-vehicle distance measuring deviceTherefore,When the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined timeCarDistancePreset distance corresponding toIn response to measuring,Furthermore, the output signal value from the sensor isIn the storage meansAnd a means for determining the possibility of a collision based on whether or not the stored output signal value is within a reference range and outputting an alarm.
[0006]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the second aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, the inter-vehicle distance measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, and the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle becomes constant for a predetermined time, Including a display for displaying the distance that the alarm operates.
[0007]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a third aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on the detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, the inter-vehicle distance measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, and the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle becomes constant for a predetermined time, Including a display for displaying a difference between a distance to a forward vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device and a distance at which the alarm operates..
[0008]
  In one aspect of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the second or third aspect, the distance at which the alarm is activated is set in advance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance when the inter-vehicle distance becomes constant for a predetermined time. Distance.
[0009]
  In another aspect of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the second or third aspect, the distance at which the alarm operates is set in advance according to the speed of the host vehicle when the inter-vehicle distance becomes constant for a predetermined time. It is the set distance.
[0010]
  Further, the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the second or third aspect includes a sensor in which an output signal is changed by an operation of an accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and a sensor from when the inter-vehicle distance is constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing the reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value, and the output signal value from the sensor is out of the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means In some cases, further comprises means for erasing the display on the display.
[0011]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and detects the danger of a collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle of the vehicle, the sensor in which the output signal changes by the operation of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. And a display for displaying a distance at which the alarm operates.
[0012]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle of the vehicle, the sensor in which the output signal changes by the operation of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. And a display for displaying a difference between the distance to the forward vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device and the distance at which the alarm operates.
[0013]
  In one aspect of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the distance that the alarm operates corresponds to the inter-vehicle distance when the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. Is a preset distance.
[0014]
  Further, in another aspect of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the distance at which the alarm is activated is the distance of the own vehicle when the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. It may be a distance set in advance corresponding to the speed.
[0015]
  Further, the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the fourth or fifth aspect is an output signal set based on the output signal from the sensor when the output signal value of the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing the reference range, and when the output signal value from the sensor is outside the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means, the display on the display is erased. And means.
[0016]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the sixth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, a sensor that changes an output signal by operating an accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and a forward traveling vehicle that is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value from the sensor when the inter-vehicle distance becomes constant for a predetermined time, and the output signal stored in the storage means And a display for displaying a reference range of values.
[0017]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a seventh aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, and a sensor whose output signal changes due to an operation of an accelerator pedal of the host vehicle and when the output signal of the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time Storage means for storing the reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value from the sensor, and a display for displaying the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means Including.
[0018]
  Further, the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the sixth or seventh aspect may be configured so that the output signal value from the sensor is out of the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means. Further included is a means for erasing the display above.
[0019]
  An inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to an eighth aspect of the present invention measures an inter-vehicle distance to a preceding vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and detects a danger of a collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. This is an inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, and includes a display that displays a distance at which the alarm device operates according to an input signal from an input means installed in the host vehicle.
[0020]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a ninth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, the distance to the forward traveling vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device according to an input signal from an input means installed in the own vehicle; It includes a display for displaying a difference from the operating distance of the alarm device.
[0021]
  In one aspect of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the eighth or ninth aspect, the distance that the alarm operates is a distance set in advance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance at the time of signal input from the input means. is there.
[0022]
  In another aspect of the inter-vehicle distance measuring apparatus according to the eighth or ninth aspect, the distance at which the alarm operates is set in advance corresponding to the speed of the host vehicle when a signal is input from the input means. Distance.
[0023]
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a tenth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on the detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, a sensor that changes an output signal by operating an accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and a forward traveling vehicle that is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value from the sensor when the inter-vehicle distance is constant for a predetermined time, and measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device. And a means for erasing the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means based on the fact that the inter-vehicle distance with the preceding traveling vehicle has become constant for a predetermined time.
An inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a predetermined inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, and a sensor whose output signal changes due to an operation of an accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and an output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing the reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value from the sensor at the time, and the output signal value from the sensor is newly constant for a predetermined time. And a means for erasing the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means.
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle ahead by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and detects the risk of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, a vehicle that travels forward measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device and a sensor that changes an output signal by operating an accelerator pedal of the host vehicle Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value from the sensor when the inter-vehicle distance is constant for a predetermined time, and the output stored in the storage means Based on the fact that the inter-vehicle distance measured with the indicator for displaying the reference range of the signal value and the preceding vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device becomes constant for a predetermined time, the display on the indicator is displayed. Erase And an order of means.
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on the detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle of the vehicle, the sensor in which the output signal changes by the operation of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing the reference range of the output signal value set based on the output signal value from the sensor, and a display for displaying the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means And means for erasing the display on the display unit based on the fact that the output signal from the sensor is newly constant for a predetermined time.
  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, an inter-vehicle distance alarm device measures an inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and detects a collision risk based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, the inter-vehicle distance measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, and the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle becomes constant for a predetermined time, Based on the fact that the inter-vehicle distance between the vehicle traveling ahead and the host vehicle, which is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, is constant for a predetermined time, which is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, is displayed. Means for erasing the display on the vessel.
  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, an inter-vehicle distance alarm device measures an inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and detects a danger of a collision based on detection of a predetermined inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that operates an alarm device for informing the vehicle, the inter-vehicle distance measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device, and the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle becomes constant for a predetermined time, A display for displaying a difference between a distance to a forward traveling vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device and a distance at which the alarm is activated; and a forward traveling vehicle and the own vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device; Means for erasing the display on the display unit based on the fact that the inter-vehicle distance has become constant for a predetermined time.
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and the risk of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle of the vehicle, the sensor in which the output signal changes by the operation of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. And a means for erasing the display on the display based on the fact that the output signal value from the sensor is newly constant for a predetermined time. Further included.
  The inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention measures the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle by using an inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and detects the danger of collision based on detection of a preset inter-vehicle distance. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates an alarm device for informing the vehicle of the vehicle, the sensor in which the output signal changes by the operation of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. And a display for displaying the difference between the distance to the preceding vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device and the distance at which the alarm operates, and the output signal value from the sensor is newly made constant for a predetermined time. And means for erasing the display on the display based on the fact that
[0024]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
This inter-vehicle distance alarm device is mounted on the host vehicle and includes an inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 for measuring the distance from the host vehicle to a forward traveling vehicle. As the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1, a well-known radar system using laser light or millimeter wave, or an apparatus for measuring the inter-vehicle distance by image processing can be used.
[0025]
The output of the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 is given to the microcomputer 2. In addition, the microcomputer 2 is provided with outputs from the sensor 4, the brake sensor 6, the vehicle speed sensor 7, and the like. The sensor 4 has an output signal that changes in proportion to the depression amount and depression pressure of the accelerator pedal 3. For example, the sensor 4 is installed in a throttle opening sensor that detects the degree of opening of the throttle valve, and an intake manifold, and is sucked into the engine. An air flow meter that detects the amount of air, a vacuum sensor that detects the pressure of the intake manifold, a vehicle speed sensor, an engine speed sensor, or a position sensor attached to a wire or link connected to the accelerator pedal 3, attached to the accelerator pedal 3 At least one signal from an output signal that changes due to the operation of the accelerator pedal 3 such as a touch sensor is used. In addition to this, the battery voltage that changes due to the operation of the accelerator pedal 3 may be used as the output signal value from the sensor 4.
[0026]
The brake sensor 6 is a sensor that detects that the brake pedal 5 has been depressed. The vehicle speed sensor 7 is a sensor that outputs, for example, a wheel speed pulse corresponding to a rotation amount of an encoder wheel provided on a rotation shaft of a tire as a vehicle speed signal. This vehicle speed signal may be used when an automobile is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, or a vehicle speed sensor 7 for a speedometer may be used.
[0027]
In the microcomputer 2, processing described later is performed based on the signals from the above-described sensors and detectors, and the result is displayed on the display device 8. Further, when there is a possibility of collision between the host vehicle and the vehicle traveling ahead, the alarm device 10 is activated to give attention to the driver.
Further, in the vicinity of the driver's seat, there are an operation panel 9 and input means 11 that can be operated by the driver. An operation for changing an initial setting value or the like can be performed by the operation panel 9, and a driver can arbitrarily execute processing to be described later by pressing a push button switch as the input unit 11.
[0028]
FIG. 2 is an illustrative view showing a distance relationship between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle in order to explain the operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device in the first embodiment. As an example, the inter-vehicle distance measurement installed in the host vehicle is illustrated. The place where the inter-vehicle distance 22m to the forward traveling vehicle is measured by the device 1 is shown.
[0029]
FIG. 3 shows a screen of the liquid crystal display 12 of the display device 8 for displaying the operation status of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device in the first embodiment. Reference numeral 13 denotes the inter-vehicle distance to the preceding vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1. In the inter-vehicle distance display section for digitally displaying the distance, a numerical value of 22 is displayed from the illustration of FIG. Reference numeral 14 denotes an alarm distance display unit that digitally displays the inter-vehicle distance when the alarm device 10 operates when there is a possibility of collision (rear collision) between the vehicle traveling ahead and the host vehicle. Reference numeral 15 denotes an approach distance display, and the difference between the numerical value displayed on the above-mentioned inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 and the numerical value displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14 is digitally displayed. It will be shown how many meters approach the vehicle-to-vehicle distance displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14.
[0030]
Reference numeral 16 denotes a scale indicating a value corresponding to an output signal value from the sensor 4. In the center of the scale 16, a zone portion 17 highlighted with a scale 16 or a color or pattern is provided. As will be described later, the zone section 17 indicates the operation stop condition of the inter-vehicle distance warning device and the reference range of the output signal value from the sensor 4 used for determining the possibility of a collision. Note that the width of the zone portion 17 (output signal value setting reference range) can be arbitrarily increased or decreased by a controller (not shown) on the operation panel 9. The operation stop condition can be matched to the driving characteristics of the driver.
Reference numeral 18 denotes a pointer indicating a value corresponding to the output signal value of the sensor 4 and moves to the left and right along the scale 16 as the output signal value changes. Reference numeral 19 denotes a speed display unit that digitally displays the host vehicle speed based on a signal from the vehicle speed sensor 7, and reference numeral 20 denotes a tachometer that displays the engine speed in a bar graph.
[0031]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the inter-vehicle distance warning device in the first embodiment, and the configuration and operation will be described below with reference to FIGS.
In step S1, it is assumed that the inter-vehicle distance to the forward traveling vehicle is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 mounted on the host vehicle, and the distance is 22 m from the illustration shown in FIG. Then, a numerical value of 22 is displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display section 13 of the liquid crystal display 12 of the display device 8. The output signal value from the sensor 4 is also constantly measured, and the microcomputer 2 always determines whether or not the measured output signal value has changed for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) (step S2). . For example, if the absolute value of the output signal from the sensor 4 is 30, it is checked in step S2 whether or not the value of 30 is the same for a predetermined time. Note that the predetermined time can be arbitrarily changed by a controller on the operation panel 9, and can be adapted to the driving characteristics of the driver.
[0032]
When it is detected in step S2 that the output signal value from the sensor 4 has not changed for a predetermined time, in step S3, the microcomputer 2 uses the output signal value from the sensor 4 at that time as a reference for the output signal value. Set and store the range. For example, if the absolute value of the output signal value at that time is 30 and the allowable range of the difference of plus or minus 5 is predetermined, a reference range of 25 to 35 output signal values is set, and the microcomputer 2 It will be stored in memory. Further, as shown in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 12 in FIG. 3, the pointer 18 indicating the change in the output signal value from the zone portion 17 of the scale 16 or the sensor 4 is lit. The displayed width (range) of the zone portion 17 corresponds to the reference range of the output signal value set and stored in the microcomputer 2 described above. The position at which the pointer 18 is initially displayed is at the center of the zone portion 17, but moves to the left and right along the scale 16 in accordance with the change in the output signal value from the sensor 4 measured thereafter. That is, if it becomes higher than the output signal value when it has not changed for a predetermined time in step S2, it moves to the + side of the scale 16, and if it becomes lower, it moves to the-side. When the signal value is outside the setting reference range), the display of the pointer 18 is turned off, or the display mode such as the color and pattern of the pointer 18 is changed. For example, the pointer 18 is in the zone portion 17 When the pointer 18 of the solid display comes out of the zone portion 17, it is changed to the pointer 18 drawn by the outline so that the driver can easily recognize it. Similarly, the zone 17 may be turned off or the display mode may be changed.
[0033]
Further, in step S3, a warning distance set in advance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance 22m measured when the output signal value from the sensor 4 does not change in step S2 is the warning distance display section of the liquid crystal display 12. 14 is displayed. This alarm distance is preset in accordance with the inter-vehicle distance measured at that time, and is stored in the memory in the microcomputer 2. That is, the determination of the possibility of a collision in step S6 and the distance when the alarm device 10 is activated in step S7 is displayed from the result. From FIG. 2, when the distance stored in advance in the memory of the microcomputer 2 is set to within 17 m, for example, with respect to the inter-vehicle distance of 22 m measured when the output signal value from the sensor 4 has not changed for a predetermined time. Is displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14. The numerical value displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14 does not change until the flow of the operating inter-vehicle distance alarm device is cleared (including cancellation on the way). Note that the alarm distance set in advance corresponding to each measurement distance can also be arbitrarily changed by a controller on the operation panel 9 so as to match the driving characteristics of the driver.
[0034]
The approach distance display unit 15 provided close to the alarm distance display unit 14 includes a numerical value 22 displayed on the above-mentioned inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 and a numerical value 17 displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14. A numerical value of 5 which is the difference between and is displayed. According to the numerical value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15, when the distance between the vehicles approaches another 5 m, the alarm distance becomes 17 m and the driver can easily recognize that the alarm device 10 operates. If an interrupting vehicle enters between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle and the distance is 14 m within the alarm distance of 17 m, the approach distance display unit 15 displays a numerical value of −3. The approach distance is set to a different distance depending on the distance displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13, that is, the distance of the inter-vehicle distance measured when the output signal value from the sensor 4 does not change for a predetermined time. Also good. For example, the approach distance for a long distance of 100 m is set as long as 20 m, and conversely, it is set as short as 3 m for a short distance of 15 m. Thereafter, as the distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle approaches, the numerical value 22 displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 decreases to 21, 20, 19,..., But the alarm distance display unit 14 Since the numerical value of 17 displayed in (5) does not change until the operating flow is cleared, the numerical value 5 displayed in the approach distance display unit 15 is also 4, 3, 2,... It will be reduced to match.
[0035]
In step S4, when the inter-vehicle distance between the forward vehicle and the host vehicle is within 17m of the warning distance, that is, the numerical value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15 is 0 or a negative numerical value due to the measurement of the interrupting vehicle. Is displayed, the process proceeds to step S5, the output signal value from the sensor 4 at that time is read, and it is checked in step S6 whether it is within the reference range of the output signal value previously set and stored in step S3. If it is within the range, the driver of the host vehicle has not taken appropriate measures such as returning the accelerator pedal 3 even though the vehicle in front and the host vehicle have approached, so it is determined that there is a possibility of a collision. In step S7, an alarm sound is emitted from the alarm device 10 for a predetermined time, and an alarm lamp blinks on the liquid crystal display 12. The warning lamp may be blinked for a predetermined period of time when the value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15 is 0 or initially displayed as minus.
[0036]
Whether or not the output signal value in step S6 is within the set reference range depends on whether or not the pointer 18 is positioned in the zone 17 of the scale 16 displayed on the liquid crystal display 12. Can be confirmed. Further, as described above, the range of the zone portion 17 (output signal value setting reference range) can be arbitrarily increased or decreased by the adjuster provided on the operation panel 9, but the output signal value when the detection is performed for a predetermined time in step S2. Depending on the size, the range may be set differently in advance.
[0037]
After the alarm device 10 is activated for a predetermined time in step S7 or when the output signal value read in order to determine the possibility of a collision in step S6 is outside the set reference range, the operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device is as follows. After clearing (step S8) and returning to the start time, the flow is resumed based on the distance measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring instrument 1 and the output signal value from the sensor 4.
[0038]
As described above, in the first embodiment, the possibility of a collision is determined based on the driver's reaction when the distance between the host vehicle and the vehicle ahead is approaching, and the sensor 4 whose output signal changes according to the operation of the accelerator pedal 3. Based on the output signal value from the vehicle, the possibility of a collision is determined by examining whether the driver is taking appropriate measures from the change in the output signal value from the sensor 4 as the vehicle distance approaches. .
In the above-described first embodiment, when the output signal value from the sensor 4 is outside the reference range of the output signal value set and stored in step S3 (step S6), that is, the position of the pointer 18 is in the zone portion 17. When it is out of the range, the indication of the pointer 18 and the zone portion 17 is turned off or the display mode is changed. In addition, it is displayed on the alarm distance display portion 14 and the approach distance display portion 15. The situation may be notified to the driver by turning off the numerical value or changing the display mode such as the display size, color, and pattern.
[0039]
Next, the configuration and operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device of the second embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. The block diagram showing the electrical configuration, the distance relationship between the vehicle in front and the host vehicle, and the screen configuration of the liquid crystal display 12 of the display device 8 are exactly the same as those in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 described in the first embodiment. Since they are the same, the same reference numerals are given.
In the flowchart of FIG. 5, it is assumed that the inter-vehicle distance to the forward traveling vehicle is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 mounted on the host vehicle at step T1, and the distance is 22 m as shown in FIG. Then, the numerical value 22 is displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display section 13 of the liquid crystal display 12. The microcomputer 2 determines based on the measured inter-vehicle distance 22 m whether or not the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are in a follow-up traveling state for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) (step T2). The predetermined time can be arbitrarily changed by a controller on the operation panel 9 and can be adapted to the driving characteristics of the driver.
[0040]
In addition, as a method for determining whether or not the vehicle has been in the follow-up state for the predetermined time, a method proposed in Japanese Patent Application No. 5-101069 by the applicant of the present application may be used. This is based on how much the inter-vehicle distance measured after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 measured the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead, with respect to the initial inter-vehicle distance. Alternatively, the measured time of the inter-vehicle distance measured at the beginning is measured, and whether or not the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are in a follow-up traveling state for a predetermined time depending on whether or not the time has reached a predetermined time. It is to be determined. That is, when the measured inter-vehicle distance from the preceding traveling vehicle has not changed for a predetermined time, it is determined that the vehicle has been in a follow-up state for a predetermined time. Therefore, the contents of step T2 and step T11 in the flowchart of FIG. 5 may be changed such that the measured inter-vehicle distance has not changed for a predetermined time. The same applies to step P2 and step P8 in the flowchart of FIG.
[0041]
When it is detected in step T2 that the vehicle has been in the follow-up state for a predetermined time, the microcomputer 2 reads the output signal value from the sensor 4 at that time, and based on that value, sets the reference range of the output signal value. It is stored in a storage means in the computer 2 (step T3). For example, if the absolute value of the output signal from the sensor 4 is 30, and an allowable range of a difference of plus or minus 5 is predetermined for the value, the output signal value of 25 to 35 is used as the reference range. It is set and stored in the memory in the microcomputer 2. Based on the stored reference range of the output signal value, the possibility of collision described later is determined.
[0042]
Further, in step T3, a warning distance set in advance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance 22m when the follow-up running state in step T2 is reached is displayed on the warning distance display unit 14 of the liquid crystal display 12 in FIG. The preset alarm distance is preset and stored in the memory in the microcomputer 2 in correspondence with the inter-vehicle distance when the vehicle is first measured and the following state of tracking is detected, that is, in step T8. By determining the possibility of a collision (rear collision), the distance at which the alarm device 10 is activated is displayed in step T9. From the graphical illustration of FIG. 2, the distance previously stored in the memory of the microcomputer 2 is, for example, within 17 m with respect to the inter-vehicle distance of 22 m that was first measured and used to determine whether or not the vehicle is in the following-following traveling state. If it is set, a numerical value of 17 is displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14. The numerical value displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14 does not change until the operating flow is cleared (including midway clearing). Note that the alarm distance set in advance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance when the vehicle follows the predetermined time can be arbitrarily changed by a controller on the operation panel 9. For example, the alarm distance 17m in the above-mentioned 22m inter-vehicle distance can be increased to 19m, or conversely, can be shortened to 15m, so that it can be adapted to the driving characteristics of the driver.
[0043]
An approach distance display unit 15 provided close to the alarm distance display unit 14 includes a numerical value 22 displayed on the aforementioned inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 and a numerical value 17 displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14. A numerical value of 5 which is the difference is displayed. According to the numerical value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15, when the distance between the vehicles approaches another 5 m, the alarm distance becomes 17 m and the driver can easily recognize that the alarm device 10 operates. If an interrupting vehicle enters between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle and the distance is, for example, 14 m within the alarm distance of 17 m, a numerical value of −3 is displayed on the approach distance display unit 15. The approach distance may be set to different distances in advance depending on the distance displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13, that is, the distance between the inter-vehicle distances when the vehicle is in the following traveling state. For example, the approach distance for a long distance of 100 m is set as long as 20 m, and conversely, it is set as short as 3 m for a short distance of 15 m.
[0044]
Further, in step T3, as shown in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 12 in FIG. 3, the pointer 18 indicating the change in the output signal value from the zone portion 17 and the sensor 4 is lit up. The width (range) of the zone portion 17 corresponds to the reference range (25 to 35) of the output signal value set and stored in the microcomputer 2 described above. The display position of the pointer 18 is the center of the zone portion 17 when it is first lit, but moves to the left and right along the scale 16 in accordance with the change in the output signal value from the sensor 4 measured thereafter. That is, if the output signal value from the sensor 4 measured when the vehicle has been in the follow-up running state for a predetermined time in step T2, it moves to the + side of the scale 16 and moves to the-side if it becomes lower.
[0045]
If the output signal value from the sensor 4 to be measured thereafter is within this setting reference range (step T4), the system flow proceeds to step T6, but if the output signal value from the sensor 4 is this setting When it is out of the reference range, that is, when the display position of the pointer 18 is outside the range of the zone portion 17, the process proceeds to step T5, and the alarm distance and approach distance display values displayed from step T3 are erased, or By changing the display mode (changes in display color, display size, display pattern, etc.), the alarm device 10 does not issue an alarm even if the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are within the alarm distance. This makes it easier for the driver to recognize this. In addition, when the position of the pointer 18 is out of the range of the zone portion 17, the color size or pattern of the pointer 18 is changed. For example, when the pointer 18 is in the zone portion, the display is solid. When the pointer 18 comes out of the zone portion 17, it may be changed to the pointer 18 drawn by the outline, and the display mode of the zone portion 17 may be changed in the same manner. If the output signal value from the sensor 4 is within the set reference range (the display position of the pointer 18 is in the zone portion 17) before the flow is cleared in step T10, these are displayed again, or the display mode is changed. Return to the original.
[0046]
When the distance between the vehicle traveling ahead and the host vehicle approaches while the output signal value from the sensor 4 that is constantly measured is within the set reference range, the numerical value of 22 displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 21, 20, 19, and so on, but the numerical value of 17 displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14 does not change until the operating flow is cleared, and is displayed on the approach distance display unit 15. The numerical value 5 is also decreased according to a change in the numerical value of the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 such as 4, 3, 2,.
[0047]
In step T6, when the inter-vehicle distance between the forward vehicle and the host vehicle is within 17 m of the alarm distance, that is, the numerical value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15 is 0, or the negative numerical value is obtained by measuring the interrupting vehicle. When it is displayed, the process proceeds to step T7, where the microcomputer 2 reads the output signal value from the sensor 4 at that time and compares it with the reference value of the output signal value set and stored in step T3 in step T8. Compared by means. If it is within the range, it is determined that the driver of the host vehicle has not taken an appropriate measure such as returning the accelerator pedal 3 even though the preceding vehicle and the host vehicle have approached. In order to notify the driver of the danger, an alarm sound is emitted from the alarm device 10 for a predetermined time, and an alarm lamp blinks on the liquid crystal display 12.
[0048]
After the alarm device 10 is activated for a predetermined time in step T9, or when the output signal value from the sensor 4 measured in step T8 is out of the reference range, the operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device is cleared (step T10). Return to the starting point, and the flow resumes based on the measured distance between vehicles.
[0049]
In step T6, when the distance to the forward vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 is not within the warning distance, for example, if the distance at that time is 20 m, the process proceeds to step T11, and this newly measured 20 m On the basis of this distance, the microcomputer 2 determines whether or not the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle have been in a follow-up traveling state for a predetermined time as in step T2. And if it will be in a follow-up state for a predetermined time with this new measurement distance 20m, in Step T12, the reference range of the output signal value memorized by the storage means performed at previous Step T3, the alarm distance display part 14, Each numerical value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15 and the display of the zone unit 17 and the pointer 18 are deleted.
[0050]
Then, the process returns to step T3 again, and the reference range of the output signal value is newly set and stored on the basis of the output signal value from the sensor 4 when the vehicle is in the following state for a predetermined time at a distance of 20 m. The distance display unit 14 also displays a preset alarm distance corresponding to a distance of 20 m, for example, a value of 15 if it is set to 15 m, and a value of 5 on the approach distance display unit 15 accordingly. The The zone portion 17 and the pointer 18 are also displayed again. Regarding the subsequent flow, the above description is repeated.
[0051]
The reason why the distance between the vehicles for newly determining the following running state for the predetermined time at step T11 is 20 m instead of 21 m adjacent to the previously measured 22 m is as described in Japanese Patent Application No. 9-41307. In order to determine that the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are in the following state for the predetermined time, the distance measured before and after the distance measured at the beginning (for example, it may be 1 m each, or at other distances) This is because the distance for determining the follow-up traveling state including a range may be widened. That is, when the distance between the vehicles is 22m measured at step T1 and the width of each 1m is set before and after the distance, the following traveling state is determined when the distance from 21m to 23m is first measured at the distance of 22m. Become a distance. Then, the distance for determining the following traveling state when the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle approach each other and reach a distance of 20 m, for example, is a distance range of 19 m to 21 m centering on the distance of 20 m, and further closer In this case, the distance range is 17 m to 19 m when the distance is 18 m. However, after detecting the tracking state following the predetermined time at step T2, the inter-vehicle distance for newly detecting the tracking state following the predetermined time at step T11 is as described above centering on the newly measured inter-vehicle distance. Therefore, it may be 22 m, which is the same as step T2, or may be a distance of 23 m or 21 m adjacent thereto.
[0052]
As described above, the second embodiment has been described. In step T4 of the second embodiment described above, even when the output signal value from the sensor 4 momentarily falls outside the set reference range, the alarm distance, the approach distance, or the pointer 18 The display is erased or the display mode is changed (step T5). However, if step T5 is executed outside the instantaneous reference range of the output signal value, it may be troublesome for the driver. There is also sex. Therefore, it becomes more effective if a time element is added so that step T4 is discriminated based on whether or not the output signal value from the sensor 4 is out of the predetermined time reference range.
[0053]
Further, in the second embodiment, when the output signal value from the sensor 4 measured after step T3 is out of the set reference range (step T4), the alarm distance, the approach distance and the display of the pointer 18 are deleted, or Although the display mode is changed (step T5), the flow of the alarm device itself continues. Therefore, when the output signal value falls outside the reference range in step T4, the flow may be advanced to step T10 to change to a system that clears (cancels) all the system operations.
[0054]
As described above, in the second embodiment, every time the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle detect the following traveling state for a predetermined time, the operating condition of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device is based on the measured inter-vehicle distance and the output signal value from the sensor 4 at that time. Since it changes each time, it becomes a collision prevention apparatus which can respond to a driving | running | working condition exactly. In addition, since the output signal value from the sensor 4 is constantly monitored, whether or not the inter-vehicle distance alarm device functions according to the operation of the accelerator pedal 3 that is interlocked with it, that is, the change in the driving operation of the driver of the host vehicle is approached. The display numerical values of the distance and the alarm distance can be immediately turned off or the display mode of the display numerical values can be changed, so that the practicality of the apparatus can be improved.
[0055]
Next, a third embodiment will be described. This third embodiment is applied to the collision prediction apparatus proposed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-31074 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-79551 by the applicant of the present application. The outline of the apparatus will be described. The first reference distance and the second reference distance closer to the host vehicle than the first reference distance are set in advance with respect to the distance from the forward traveling vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1. And from the time until the distance within the second reference distance is detected after detecting that the distance to the preceding vehicle has reached the first reference distance, or after a predetermined time from the detection of the first reference distance. The relative speed between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle is determined based on whether or not the measurement distance is within the second reference distance. If the relative speed is greater than or equal to a predetermined speed, it is determined that there is a risk of collision, and the alarm device 10 Is to activate
[0056]
FIG. 6 is an illustrative view showing the distance relationship between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle in order to explain the operation of the collision prediction apparatus, and a reference distance for obtaining a relative speed is preset for each distance. Yes. For example, the microcomputer 2 is preliminarily set and stored in the A section, the B section, the C section, and so on. In the A section, the first reference distance represented by A-1 is 34 m, while the second reference distance represented by A-2 is 30 m, and in the B section, the first reference distance represented by B-1 is 31 m, The second reference distance represented by B-2 is set to 27 m, and in C section, the first reference distance displayed in C-1 is set to 28 m, and the second reference distance displayed in C-2 is set to 24 m. The relative speed is calculated by the microcomputer 2 based on the detection of the second reference distance from the detection of the first reference distance at, and the presence or absence of a collision is determined.
[0057]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart in the third embodiment, and the operation thereof will be described below based on the distance relationship of FIG. Since the screen configuration of the liquid crystal display 12 is the same as that of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given. In step P <b> 1, the distance to the vehicle ahead is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1, and the distance is displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 of the liquid crystal display 12. Now, as an example, since the distance is 35 m from the graphical illustration of FIG. 6, a numerical value of 35 is displayed. Then, based on the distance of 35 m, the microcomputer 2 checks whether or not the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle have been in a follow-up running state for a predetermined time as in the second embodiment (step P2). If there is, the process proceeds to Step P3. The method for obtaining the follow-up running state and the target distance are as described in the second embodiment.
[0058]
In step P3, the distance that the alarm device 10 of the collision prediction device that is set in advance for the measurement distance 35 m when it is determined that the vehicle follows the predetermined time is displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14 of the liquid crystal display 12. . A numerical value of 30 m, which is the second reference distance in the A section, is displayed from the graphic illustration of FIG. 6, and this numerical value does not change until the operating system is cleared. However, in this example, the alarm distance and the second reference distance are described as being the same, but a different distance, for example, the alarm distance may be 29 m. That is, the second reference distance for obtaining the relative speed and the distance at which the alarm device 10 operates are not necessarily the same, but the distance relationship between them must be determined in advance.
[0059]
Further, the approach distance display unit 15 displays a numerical value of 5, which is the difference between the numerical value 35 displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 and the numerical value 30 displayed on the warning distance display unit 14, and is currently measured. When approaching 5 m from the distance 35 m, it can be visually recognized that the alarm 10 operates at a distance of 30 m. Each numerical value displayed on the liquid crystal display 12 changes as described in the second embodiment according to the distance between the vehicles measured after that, and further, it is checked whether or not the following running state is successively obtained based on the measured distance. (Steps P2, P8). If the relative speed obtained by measuring the distance within the second reference distance after measuring the first reference distance 34m in the section A is greater than or equal to a predetermined speed, it is determined that there is a risk of collision (step P5). ) After the alarm device 10 is activated in the same manner as in the second embodiment in step P6, the flow is cleared (step P7) and the process returns to the start time.
[0060]
In step P2 and step P8, based on the changed measurement distance, the microcomputer 2 sequentially checks whether the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are in the following traveling state. For example, the measurement distance in step P1 is 35 m. In the case where the vehicle distance is 32 m due to the subsequent approach and the vehicle is in a state following the predetermined time based on the distance (step P8), the process proceeds to step P9 and is displayed from the previous step P3. The numerical value 30 of the alarm distance display unit 14 and the numerical value of the approach distance display unit 15 are deleted. Furthermore, the calculation of the relative speed in section A for operating the collision prediction device is also cleared. At the same time, the collision predicting device operates in the preset B section with respect to the distance of 32 m, which is the distance when the following traveling state is newly detected, and the second B section of the B section where the alarm device 10 operates. The numerical value of 27 m set to be the same as the reference distance is displayed on the alarm distance display unit 14, and the numerical value of 5 which is the difference between the measurement distance 32 m and the alarm distance 27 m is displayed on the approach distance display unit 15.
[0061]
As described above, in the third embodiment, in the collision prediction device that determines the possibility of a collision based on the relative speed obtained when the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are positioned at two preset reference distances, a predetermined time follow-up is performed. The distance at which the alarm device 10 of the collision prediction device is activated corresponding to the distance between the vehicles at the time when the vehicle is in the running state, and the approach distance that is the difference between the currently measured distance between the vehicles and the warning distance. Are respectively displayed on the liquid crystal display 12. Then, when it is detected that the vehicle has been in a follow-up state for a predetermined time at a new inter-vehicle distance based on the sequentially measured inter-vehicle distance, the section in which the collision prediction device operates in the previous follow-up state, and an alarm at that time The display of the distance and approach distance is erased (cleared), and at the same time, the presence or absence of a collision is determined in the section in which the collision prediction device is activated corresponding to the new inter-vehicle distance, and the warning distance, The numerical value of the approach distance is displayed on the liquid crystal display 12.
[0062]
Next, as a fourth embodiment, the function and operation of the inter-vehicle distance display device of the present invention in the inter-vehicle distance notification device previously proposed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-340200 and published technical report 98-6876 is shown in the flowchart of FIG. This will be described with reference to the drawings. The block diagram showing the electrical configuration, the distance relationship between the vehicle in front and the host vehicle, and the screen configuration of the liquid crystal display 12 are shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 2 described in the first and second embodiments. 3 are the same as those in FIG. The relationship between the currently measured inter-vehicle distance, the alarm distance, and the approach distance will be described in the same manner as in the second embodiment.
[0063]
In the flowchart of the inter-vehicle distance notification device in FIG. 8, when the distance to the vehicle ahead is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device 1 in step Q <b> 1, the distance is displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 of the liquid crystal display 12. The numerical value of 22 is displayed from the graphical illustration of FIG. 2 (step Q2). When the driver turns on (input operation) the switch of the input means 11 near the hand at the time of this distance measurement (step Q3), the alarm distance display unit 14 determines in advance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance 22m measured at that time. The alarm distance 17 at which the alarm device 10 is activated in step Q7 is a difference between the display 22 on the approach distance display section 15 and the display 17 on the alarm distance display section 14 in the approach distance display section 15. A numerical value is displayed (step Q4). It should be noted that the distance relationship between the measurement distance 22m and the corresponding alarm distance 17m, that is, the approach distance 5m, can be arbitrarily changed by the adjuster on the operation panel 9 as described in the second embodiment. It has become. Alternatively, the approach distances can be set differently in advance according to the distance of the measurement distance.
[0064]
As the inter-vehicle distance with the forward traveling vehicle changes, the numerical values displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 and the approach distance display unit 15 change accordingly, but are displayed on the alarm distance display unit 17. The numerical value of does not change until the operating flow is cleared (including cancellation in the middle) as in the second embodiment. Further, when the vehicle ahead and the host vehicle approach and come within the warning distance of step Q6, the numerical value of the approach distance display unit 15 displays 0, and the alarm device 10 is released by the input means 11 (input switch) in step Q7. It operates until it is turned off (step Q8). At this time, the alarm lamp may blink the numerical value of 0 displayed on the approach distance display unit 15 as in the second embodiment, or may blink an indicator light provided separately. Furthermore, the operation of the alarm device 10 in step Q7 is started for the first time after the system is automatically cleared after operating for a predetermined time in the same manner as in the second embodiment regardless of the release of the input means 11 in step Q8. You may make it return to a time. Even when the distance to the forward vehicle measured in step Q6 is an interrupted vehicle and the numerical value of the approach distance display unit 15 is negative, the alarm lamp in step Q7 is as described in the second embodiment. The negative value flashes.
[0065]
For generating the system operation confirmation sound in step Q4, collating the measured distance with the alarm distance in step Q5, or the contents of each step thereafter, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 4-340200 or the invention association published technology. Since it is the same as that disclosed in No. 98-6876 or the above-described Embodiment 2, the description thereof will not be repeated. This inter-vehicle distance notification device operates while the input operation (switch ON) of the input means 11 is being performed. When the input operation is stopped (switch OFF) during the system flow operation, it is in operation. This flow is cleared (cancelled). Further, if the input means 11 is a remote control type so that a signal can be sent to a controller (not shown) having a built-in microcomputer 2, the input means 11 can be installed at a place where the driver can easily operate. it can.
[0066]
As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the driver can arbitrarily display the alarm distance and the approach distance on the liquid crystal display 12 by operating the input unit 11 as in the other embodiments. As described in the above, it is not necessary to wait for the output signal value from the sensor 4 to be constant for a predetermined time or to wait for the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle to be in a state of following the predetermined time. It becomes an inter-vehicle distance warning device that can respond quickly to the situation. Therefore, this input means 11 is also provided in the inter-vehicle distance warning device and the collision prediction device of the first to third embodiments, and whether or not the output signal value from the predetermined time sensor 4 is the same or follows the predetermined time. Separately from the step for determining whether or not the signal has been received, if there is a signal from the input means 11, if the process proceeds to the next step and after, the same effect can be obtained for these devices.
[0067]
The description of the embodiment of the present invention is as described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be combined with each other or variously modified. For example, in the second embodiment, when the setting of the reference range of the output signal value in step T3 and the display of the alarm distance, the approach distance, the zone portion 17 and the pointer 18 are performed in a follow-up running state for a predetermined time (step T2, step T11), the contents of step T2 and step T11 are as follows according to whether or not the output signal value from the sensor 4 is constant for a predetermined time as described in the first embodiment. Obviously, it may be changed so that step T3 and step T12 are executed.
[0068]
In addition, when the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle approaches, the numerical values displayed on the inter-vehicle distance display unit 13 and the approach distance display unit 15 decrease accordingly, and conversely, the front traveling vehicle and the host vehicle decrease. If the distance is away, the numerical value of the display increases. However, when the distance is longer than a preset distance, the operating system may be automatically cleared (cancelled). For example, when the distance at which the system flow is cleared (cancelled) corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance of 22 m when the driving state follows the predetermined time in Example 2 is set to 27 m or more, the distance between the front traveling vehicle and the host vehicle is It is cleared when the inter-vehicle distance is longer than 27 m, so that the flow returns to the starting point.
[0069]
Further, the display device is applied not only to the inter-vehicle distance alarm device shown in the above-described example, but also, for example, the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle that is already known becomes a safe inter-vehicle distance determined in advance by the speed of the host vehicle. The inter-vehicle distance alarm device that activates the alarm device 10 based on the detection at the time is also set in advance according to the speed of the own vehicle when the forward traveling vehicle and the own vehicle are in a follow-up traveling state for a predetermined time. You may make it display the approach distance shown by the difference of the said safe distance between vehicles, ie, the alarm distance which the alarm device 10 act | operates, the inter-vehicle distance to a forward vehicle, and the said alarm distance.
Also, the numerical value displayed on the approach distance display unit 15 can be different from that of the preceding vehicle by changing the display color by the numerical value displayed at the beginning, or by highlighting the highlighted character. It becomes easier to understand as an index for maintaining the inter-vehicle distance.
[0070]
Furthermore, in each of these embodiments, the inter-vehicle distance alarm device and the display system operate only when the speed of the host vehicle is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed or when the output signal value from the sensor 4 is equal to or higher than a predetermined value. If the signal from the brake sensor 6 continues for a predetermined time during the operation of the device, or if the measurement of the inter-vehicle distance is not measured for a predetermined time, the flow cancels, etc. If conditions are added, I will add that it will be a more reliable traffic accident prevention device. In this case, if the indicator lamp corresponding to the liquid crystal display 12 is turned on in order to inform the driver of the reason why the flow has been canceled or the reason why the alarm 10 has not been activated, it is more effective. Become. For example, when the flow is canceled by a signal from the brake sensor 6, a mark indicating the brake is displayed on the liquid crystal display 12 for a certain period of time.
[0071]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle follow the predetermined traveling state, that is, after the measured inter-vehicle distance from the preceding traveling vehicle does not change for the predetermined time, a new predetermined traveling state following state is detected. Every time when the output signal value from the sensor 4 is detected to be the same for a predetermined time, the inter-vehicle distance based on the distance determined in advance by the measured inter-vehicle distance and the output signal value from the sensor 4 Since the operating condition of the alarm device is changed each time, it becomes an automobile collision prevention device capable of accurately responding to the constantly changing traveling situation.
[0072]
Further, in the display device, after the output signal value from the sensor 4 becomes the same for a predetermined time, or after the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle are in a following traveling state for a predetermined time or by an input operation of the input means by the driver The distance between the measured vehicles at that time, or the distance at which the alarm device 10 is set in advance corresponding to the speed of the host vehicle at that time, the distance between the vehicles measured after that, and the distance at which the alarm device 10 operates By displaying the approach distance that is the difference, it is possible to easily recognize how many meters it will approach to reach the distance at which the alarm device 10 operates. Furthermore, when the pointer 18 indicating the change in the output signal value from the sensor 4 is located outside the range of the zone portion 17 of the scale 16, the indicator lamp is turned off and the display mode is changed to change the collision. It can be easily visually confirmed whether or not the condition for presence / absence is met. With these display functions, the driver can clearly understand the operation status of the inter-vehicle distance warning device for the vehicle traveling ahead, and can contribute to traffic safety such as preventing an accidental rear-end collision as an index for safe driving.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an inter-vehicle distance alarm device of each embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 2 shows a distance relationship between a forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle in order to explain the operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device of Embodiments 1 and 2 and the inter-vehicle distance notification device of Embodiment 4 to which the present invention is applied. FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a screen configuration of a display device according to the present invention displayed on a liquid crystal display.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device of the first embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the inter-vehicle distance alarm device of the second embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 6 is an illustrative view showing a distance relationship between a forward traveling vehicle and the own vehicle in order to explain the operation of the collision prediction apparatus according to the third embodiment to which the present invention is applied;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the collision prediction apparatus according to the third embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the inter-vehicle distance notification device of the fourth embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Inter-vehicle distance measuring device
2 Microcomputer
3 Accelerator pedal
4 Sensor
5 Brake pedal
6 Brake sensor
7 Vehicle speed sensor
8 display devices
9 Operation panel
10 Alarm
11 Input means (switch)
12 Liquid crystal display
13 Inter-vehicle distance display
14 Alarm distance display
15 Approach distance display
16 scale
17 Zone
18 Guidelines

Claims (12)

The inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the output signal value from the sensor become constant for a predetermined time, storage means for storing a reference range based on the output signal value output signal value of the sensor, by the inter-vehicle distance measuring instrument, measuring an inter-vehicle distance when the output signal value from the sensor has reached a predetermined time constant When the inter-vehicle distance is within a preset alarm distance corresponding to the inter-vehicle distance , and the output signal value from the sensor is within the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means And an inter-vehicle distance alarm device comprising means for outputting an alarm. The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An alarm device comprising: a display for displaying a distance at which the alarm is activated after the distance between the vehicle traveling ahead and the host vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device becomes constant for a predetermined time; The alarm is activated based on a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the vehicle and an output signal value from the sensor when the inter-vehicle distance is constant for a predetermined time . storage means for storing a reference range of the set output signal value as a factor in determining whether the output signal value from the sensor and out of the reference range of the output signal values stored in the storage means When , The distance warning device which comprises a means for erasing the display on the display. The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. The distance from the forward traveling vehicle measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device after the inter-vehicle distance between the forward traveling vehicle and the host vehicle is constant for a predetermined time, measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device. When the distance between the vehicles becomes constant for a predetermined time, a display that displays the difference between the distance that the alarm is activated, a sensor that changes the output signal in accordance with the amount of depression of the accelerator pedal or the depression pressure of the vehicle of a storage unit for storing a reference range of factors and to set output signal value that determines whether to operate based on the alarm output signal values from the sensor, output from the sensor Previous signal value When it becomes the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means, distance warning device which comprises a means for erasing the display on the display.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. A warning device, a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the warning device operates after the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time. Set as a factor that determines whether to activate the alarm device based on the output signal value from the sensor when the output signal value of the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time when the display device displays the distance Storage means for storing the reference range of the output signal value, and if the output signal value from the sensor is outside the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means, display Distance warning device which comprises a means for erasing.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An alarm device, a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and the inter-vehicle distance measuring device after the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time An indicator that displays the difference between the distance to the forward vehicle measured in step 1 and the distance that the alarm operates, and an output signal from the sensor when the output signal value of the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time A storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the value; and an output signal value from the sensor is stored in the storage means. When it becomes out of the reference range of the output signal values, distance warning device which comprises a means for erasing the display on the display.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An alarm device, in which an inter-vehicle distance between a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle and a vehicle traveling ahead measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device is constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the output signal value from the sensor at the time, and stored in the storage means And an indicator for displaying a reference range of the output signal value.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An alarm device, a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle, and an output signal value from the sensor when the output signal of the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time A storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the display, and a reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means is displayed. An inter-vehicle distance warning device comprising a display.   The inter-vehicle distance warning device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein an output signal value from the sensor is out of a reference range of an output signal value stored in the storage means, on the display unit. An inter-vehicle distance alarm device further comprising means for erasing the display.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An alarm device, in which an inter-vehicle distance between a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle and a vehicle traveling ahead measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device is constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the output signal value from the sensor, and the inter-vehicle distance measurement Means for erasing the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means based on the fact that the inter-vehicle distance from the preceding traveling vehicle, which is measured by the device, becomes constant for a predetermined time. Distance warning device, characterized in that.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. A warning device, a sensor whose output signal changes according to the accelerator pedal depression amount or depression pressure of the host vehicle, and an output from the sensor when the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the signal value, and the output signal value from the sensor is newly made constant for a predetermined time And a means for erasing the reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means based on the fact that   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. An alarm device, in which an inter-vehicle distance between a sensor whose output signal changes according to the depression amount or depression pressure of the accelerator pedal of the host vehicle and a vehicle traveling ahead measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device is constant for a predetermined time. Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the output signal value from the sensor, and in the storage means The indicator that displays the reference range of the stored output signal value, and the indicator that is measured by the inter-vehicle distance measuring device and that the inter-vehicle distance from the vehicle ahead is newly fixed for a predetermined time. Distance warning device which comprises a means for erasing the display of the.   The inter-vehicle distance is measured by measuring the inter-vehicle distance to the vehicle traveling ahead with the inter-vehicle distance measuring device mounted on the host vehicle, and operating the alarm device to notify the danger of collision based on the detection of the preset inter-vehicle distance. A warning device, a sensor whose output signal changes according to the accelerator pedal depression amount or depression pressure of the host vehicle, and an output from the sensor when the output signal value from the sensor becomes constant for a predetermined time Storage means for storing a reference range of the output signal value set as a factor for determining whether or not to activate the alarm device based on the signal value, and a reference range of the output signal value stored in the storage means An inter-vehicle distance alarm comprising: a display for displaying; and means for erasing the display on the display based on a new output signal value from the sensor becoming constant for a predetermined time. Location.

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